Research - Voice

Some ICT service departments/teams will not open firewalls to allow in-world voice communication due to security concerns.

There are some other options to use voice if necessary.

Skype (or an alternative VOIP service if available through the firewall) can provide voice and other functionality in parallel with the virtual world. Some virtual worlds have 'Skype Badges' or other scripted tools to facilitate in-world dialogue with nearby avatars (eg Reaction Grid shown in this picture)


If voice is not possible within an institution consider using voice from home.

Some institutions use alternative proxy/Internet software to overcome security concerns with voice. This solution may not be viable for some institutions due to policy or cost issues and may involve some additional expensive customisation. One institution currently uses a proxy server with a customised IMS (CAAB) and a CISCO Service Control Enginethat gives users access to voice in Second Life - as well as web services that do not use an authenticated proxy service.

For local/hosted OpenSim worlds without voice consider using Mumble and Murmer or Whisper
For more information see Whisper - New Voice Solution for OpenSim

Recommendations for possible Guidelines/Standards

• If voice is required consider using Skype for voice, both for in-world communication and to support remote training.
• Consider arranging sessions for when students are at home and can use voice if they have adequate access.